YouTube video courtesy of Portland Firefighters IAFF Local 43

Each year, the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) sends more than 4,000 youngsters with neuromuscular diseases to over 90 fun-filled one-week sessions at nearly 80 locations nationwide. Campers between the ages of 6 and 17 enjoy activities specially designed for young people with disabilities. Campers participate in activities such as swimming, horseback riding, talent shows, and arts and crafts programs. MDA summer camp offers something for everyone!

The MDA Camp programs across the United States are possible because of the thousands of volunteers who devote themselves to the campers during camp week. Here in Oregon, local firefighters have made it an annual tradition to show their support by volunteering during Firefighters Day at the Annual MDA Camp.

More than a dozen firefighters from Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) traveled to Camp Arrah Wanna in Welches, Oregon, bringing with them a 1979 out-of-service seagrave ladder truck and BBQ trailer.  PF&R firefighters barbequed hamburgers, hotdogs and chicken donated by the Portland Firefighters Association IAFF Local 43 and took part in hand-on activities with the campers alongside other local firefighters from Newburg Fire Department, Hoodland Fire District, Salem Fire Department, and Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue.

Firefighters look forward to the annual camp and report back that they as much out of it or more than the kids do. Learn more about MDA and how you can volunteer for MDA events in your local area by clicking here!

  Portland Fire & Rescue We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

  July 19, 2010